SylbV01-00-00. pmd

II. Course Code
: SAF 512
III. Credit Hours
: 2+1
IV. Aim of the course
To impart knowledge and to develop understanding about tree seed development,
harvesting, processing, storage, dormancy, germination of tropical, sub-tropical
and temperate species, their testing and certification.
V. Theory
Unit I
Introduction, trends and development in tropical, sub-tropical and temperate forestry
and their influence on seed demand. Seed problems, limiting factors in tree
propagation and afforestation.
Unit II
Reproductive biologyof seed plants – development and maturation of seed bearing
organs and seeds – morphology of fruit and seed – seed dispersal – ecological fruit
and seed types- seasonality and periodicity of flowering and fruiting – reproductive
age – influence of external factors on seed production. Seed structure and chemical
composition – development and maturation – germination – breakdown of storage
products – endogenous hormonal regulation – effect of stimulators and inhibitors–
dormancy – its causes and breakage specific problems of seeds of woody plants.
Unit III
Determining maturity indices. Factors influencing choice of collection methods.
Sr. No
Topic
No. of Lecture(s)

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Forestry–Silviculture and Agroforestry
547
Methods of seed collection and processing. Storage methods – loss of viability
during storage. Dormancy and pre-treatment. Germination and seedling
establishment and seed testing techniques.
Unit IV
Quality seed production technologies – seed certification.
Unit V
Eco-physiological role of seed storage. Classification of seed storage potential. Factors
affecting seed longevity. Pre-storage treatment. Physiological change during ageing.
Storage of orthodox, recalcitrant and intermediate seeds, Fumigation and seed
treatment.
VI. Practical
• Identification of forest seeds;
• Seed sampling, different storage methods, Seed quality testing-purity, viability
and germination, collection and processing of seeds/ fruit;
• Tests of viability, viz.,
 
cutting, hydrogen peroxide, excised embryo, tetrazolium,
seed health testing primarily to the presence or absence of disease-causing
organisms such as fungi, bacteria, virus and animal pests, recording, calculation
and use of results of seed treatment.